Grandpa Simmons

Sometimes I forget I have a blog to update but when life changing things happen I remember and want to write it down.
Last Wednesday night (the night before Thanksgiving) Jeremy's dad called to tell us Grandpa Simmons had just passed away. He had been suffering from congestive heart failure and diabetes so we knew it was coming but it was much harder than expected. We had the opportunity to go over to Grandma and Grandpa's house that night where we met many family and friends and were able to say goodbye. It brought such a peace and made the viewing last night (meaning Monday night) much easier for both of us. It was neat to be with family and friends and feel so much love. This is Jeremy's side of the family so althoug I may recognize a face, I don't necessarily have a strong relationship and neat relationships formed that night. His cute (great) Aunt Jerri took me in her arms and comforted me. His wonderful Aunt Tressa was a absolute joy as always. His cute little cousins loved visiting and saying hi. And his sweet Grandma was amazing through it all. It's amazing how a loss of a loved one reminds us of how important family is and can bring a family even closer together.
This morning was the funeral and many feelings were brought back up to the surface. We know that he is so much happier and has a feeling of freedom now that he doesn't have the mortal pains of his failing body. We know that we will see him again and feel blessed that we have a special reminder of what to be thankful for every year as we celebrate Thanksgiving. We are so grateful for the gospel and plan of salvation. But even with all of this, every time I look at our sweet Grandma, my heart breaks for her loss. He was her sweet heart and best friend and I couldn't imagine being in her shoes. She has been amazing through all of this and all of our testimonies have grown stronger. It's neat to see someone rely on the Lord through the hardest of times.
We will miss him so much. We are so grateful for his life and his example. It seems that we had mourned so many loved one's since we've been married but I guess that means there will be more loving faces when it's our turn to go to the other side.